"Be the first on your block with colorful blooms in spring with Black Hat® rhododendron. This very early blooming rhododendron is a confection of ruffled lavender flowers in the first few weeks of spring, each a rounded cluster atop a spray of leathery evergreen foliage.  It's the foliage that gives the plant its name, in fact - it's a very dark purple-green, reaching near black tones, especially in cooler weather.  This sets it apart from other early blooming rhodies.  Thick, durable blooms ensure longer lasting blooms over a longer period, too." - Spring Meadows Nursery [Rhododendron]